As a sophomore transfer from Stephen F. Austin, Ashley Wilburn faced a tough transition into the OCU program.
In her first season with OCU in 2008, Wilburn failed to find her groove.
“My first season here was tough, and I struggled with my pitching,” said Wilburn. “I had to work on my control and be able to throw strikes again. I worked really hard in the off-season to get back to where I was coming out of high school, and I think I am almost there.”
Without a pitching coach for guidance at SFA, Wilburn’s pitching suffered. Coming to OCU has refocused Wilburn’s pitching. She continues to improve, adding a changeup and rise ball to her repertoire of pitches.
Wilburn, a junior from Gilmer, Texas, as settled into her second season with the Stars and has posted 18 wins on the season with a 0.88 earned run average.
“The coaches and players at OCU all drive to win,” Wilburn said. “Winning is what is expected here and losing is not an option. I wanted to come here for a chance to win a national championship and play with a great team.”
Wilburn earned the Super Star of Week after striking out 34 in 26 innings without giving up an earned run during the week of March 30-April 5.
“I feel like I have adjusted well this season, and my pitching has improved,” Wilburn said. “I worked really hard in the off-season changing my motion and strengthening my legs.”
As a pitcher it is unusual to bat as well, but Wilburn as been a part of the Stars’ offense this season. Wilburn has posted two home runs, six doubles and had recorded 11 RBIs.
“I haven’t hit since my freshman year of college, so I have been working hard on getting my swing back,” Wilburn said. “Pitching is my main focus, but I love hitting too. I just want to be on the field and play for my team.”
As the season progresses, Wilburn continues to improve and lead the Stars.
“I am looking forward to 20 wins this season,” said Wilburn. “Last year I only had 10, so I set 20 wins as a goal for myself, and I am almost there. I am also always pushing myself towards a lower ERA.”
More on Ashley:
Facebook or MySpace: Facebook
Favorite video game: Guitar Hero
Favorite saying: “Always forgive, but never forget. Learn from your mistakes, but never regret. People change, things go wrong, just remember life goes on.”
Favorite team: Dallas Mavericks
Reality show I want to be on: The Real World
